Full Breakdown
Turkey's Decline in Corruption Perceptions Index: A 2025 Overview
2/11/2026, 6:49:05 PM
Turkey's Ranking and Score in the 2025 CPI
In the 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) published by Transparency International, Turkey was ranked 124th out of 182 countries, scoring 31 points. This score represents a decline of three points from the previous year and places Turkey among a cluster of countries, including Belarus, Uzbekistan, Djibouti, Mongolia, and Niger, all sharing the same score. The average score for the Eastern Europe and Central Asia region was 34, while the Middle East and North Africa region averaged 39, indicating Turkey's significant lag behind its regional peers. Since 2013, Turkey has dropped 71 places in the index, highlighting a long-term trend of declining perceptions of public sector integrity.
Historical Context of Turkey's Decline
Turkey's decline in the CPI is often traced back to late 2013, following corruption investigations that implicated then-Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan's inner circle. The subsequent suppression of these investigations, including the control of the judiciary and the jailing of police and prosecutors involved, marked a pivotal moment in the erosion of democratic checks and balances. The situation worsened after the failed coup attempt in July 2016, which led to the removal of over 4,000 judges and prosecutors, further compromising the independence of the judiciary.
Broader Implications of the CPI Findings
The 2025 CPI results reflect a broader trend of declining integrity perceptions not only in Turkey but also in several established democracies, including the United States, which scored 64 points. This suggests that challenges to transparency and accountability are becoming more widespread, even in systems traditionally viewed as robust. Transparency International's findings indicate that reversing these entrenched trends will require substantial political will.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics argue that the AKP government's actions have systematically undermined the rule of law and institutional integrity in Turkey. The consolidation of power and the suppression of dissenting voices have been cited as key factors contributing to the decline in the CPI score. The report emphasizes that the corruption networks have become embedded within political and administrative systems, complicating reform efforts.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While Turkey's CPI score has declined, other countries, such as Uzbekistan, have seen improvements in their governance indicators. Uzbekistan reported a decrease in corruption-related crimes, with 5,222 cases recorded in 2025, down from 5,716 in 2024. This contrast raises questions about the effectiveness of anti-corruption measures in different national contexts.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Turkey has dropped 71 places in the index since 2013, when it scored 50 points and was ranked 53rd.” — Transparency International
- “For Turkey, the continued decline reflects long-term structural issues rather than short-term volatility.” — Transparency International
The 2025 CPI results underscore the urgent need for reforms in Turkey to address the systemic issues contributing to corruption and to restore public trust in governance.
